š Part of our Qurbani in Makkah: Complete Guide series.
Aqeeqa is a beautiful Sunnah performed to celebrate the birth of a child ā a sacrifice offered in thanks, following the practice of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). If you've recently welcomed a new baby and want to fulfil this Sunnah correctly, this guide covers the rules, timing, and how to perform it, including from abroad.
What Is Aqeeqa?
Aqeeqa is a sacrifice offered to give thanks to Allah for the blessing of a newborn child. It's considered a confirmed Sunnah (Sunnah Mu'akkadah) by the majority of scholars ā not obligatory, but strongly encouraged and rewarded. The practice is based on authentic hadith in which the Prophet (SAW) performed Aqeeqa for his own grandsons, Hasan and Husayn (RA), and instructed the companions to do the same for their children.
How Many Animals for Aqeeqa?
The traditional guidance, based on hadith, is two animals (Goat or Sheep) for a baby boy, and one animal for a baby girl. This distinction isn't about valuing one gender over another ā scholars explain it simply reflects the specific practice recorded in the hadith. Some families, due to financial circumstances, choose to give one animal regardless of gender, which many scholars also consider acceptable, since Aqeeqa is a recommended Sunnah rather than a strict obligation.
When Should Aqeeqa Be Performed?
The most commonly cited timing is on the seventh day after the child's birth, based on hadith. If that isn't possible, many scholars permit performing it on the 14th or 21st day, or at any later point if circumstances require ā the Sunnah can still be fulfilled even if the exact seventh-day timing is missed. It's also common practice, on the seventh day, to name the child and shave their head (with the equivalent weight in silver given as charity), alongside performing the Aqeeqa.
Can Aqeeqa Be Performed Later in Life?
Yes. If Aqeeqa wasn't performed during a person's infancy ā perhaps due to financial hardship or simply not being aware of the Sunnah at the time ā many scholars permit it to be performed later, even in adulthood, either by the parents or by the individual themselves once they're able to.
Why Perform Aqeeqa in Makkah?
Just as with Qurbani, performing your child's Aqeeqa in Makkah Al-Mukarramah means the meat reaches families in genuine need living in and around the Haram, while also carrying the spiritual significance of the holiest city in Islam. For families who cannot travel, or who simply want to combine their child's Aqeeqa with this specific blessing, arranging it online is a straightforward and Shariah-compliant option.
How MakkahZabiha Performs Your Aqeeqa
You can order one or two Goat/Sheep Zabiha (depending on whether it's for a boy or girl), and specify Aqeeqa as your Zabiha type. The sacrifice is performed on your behalf in Makkah following full Shariah guidelines, the meat is distributed the same day to those in need, and you'll receive confirmation by WhatsApp and email once complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Aqeeqa obligatory?
No, the majority of scholars consider it a strongly confirmed Sunnah rather than an obligation, though it's highly encouraged for those who are able to perform it.
What if I can only afford one animal for a baby boy?
Many scholars consider performing Aqeeqa with just one animal acceptable if two isn't financially possible, since it remains a recommended Sunnah rather than a strict requirement.
Can I perform Aqeeqa for myself as an adult if my parents never did?
Yes, many scholars permit performing your own Aqeeqa later in life if it wasn't done during your infancy.
Does Aqeeqa have to be exactly on the seventh day?
While the seventh day is the most commonly cited timing based on hadith, many scholars permit performing it later ā such as the 14th or 21st day, or beyond ā if that isn't possible.
Can I combine Aqeeqa with a Camel Zabiha instead of Goat/Sheep?
The traditional practice specifies Goat or Sheep for Aqeeqa; it's best to consult a scholar if you're considering an alternative animal for this specific Sunnah.
How will I know my child's Aqeeqa has been completed?
You'll receive confirmation by WhatsApp and email once the sacrifice has been performed and the meat distributed in Makkah.